What should you do if a patient is in respiratory distress and alert?

The correct approach when a patient is in respiratory distress but is alert is to provide high-flow oxygen immediately. This action is crucial because respiratory distress indicates that the patient is not receiving enough oxygen, which can lead to serious complications if not addressed swiftly. High-flow oxygen helps to increase the amount of oxygen available to the patient, which can alleviate symptoms and improve their overall condition.

In a state of respiratory distress, the patient's body is signaling a need for immediate intervention to ensure sufficient oxygenation. By administering oxygen right away, you maximize the chances of stabilizing their condition and preventing further deterioration.

Encouraging deep breaths may be helpful in calming the patient, but it does not address the immediate need for oxygenation. Similarly, administering oxygen only if the patient requests it could delay care, which is not advisable in an urgent situation. Asking the patient to calm down and breathe normally may inadvertently overlook the severity of their condition and fail to provide necessary support. Thus, delivering high-flow oxygen is the most effective and appropriate response in this scenario.